One application so far asked for a headshot. Can they just use a snapshot? Or does he need the whole holding-the-sax-and-looking-soulfully-into-the-camera thing? What did your kid do?
Hahaha! That’s NOT a dumb question!!! Singers need headshots, usually, as type and look are part of casting. I think it’s nice to have a headshot for college auditions (to turn in-attached to your resume) even for instrumentalists. It can really help an audition panel put a face to a name later, when they are making decisions. It isn’t usually necessary (for non-singing musicians), but it sounds like in this case, it is required. You don’t have to purchase expensive headshots, and the instrument is NOT necessary, lol! But do try to hire somebody who is used to photographing for this purpose. Nowadays, it is common to pay a fee and get the HD files, so you can have your own 8x10s printed (which keeps things very inexpensive). My D had very nice headshots done in lieu of Senior Photos; or an experienced photographer could take a couple if serviceable headshots during a regular photo session. It should just look like your kid!
I think in most cases the photo is to help them remember you on audition day and post-audition. I did my son’s photos myself, but I have extensive photography/Lightroom/Photoshop experience and a good camera and portrait lens. We went to a local park to take the photos (with his instrument). It was a sunny day, so we took the photos in bright shade. The hardest part was getting the kid to look/act natural - he hates having his photo taken!
Okay, I found a local friend/photog who can do it reasonably. The things I haven’t thought of…
You can use his senior picture if you want to.
Yes, you do not need professional headshots to apply to conservatories. If your kid is doing a lot of professional playing and is being asked for headshots by presenters, that a different thing. Otherwise, save your money. (If you’re a semi-pro or pro photographer or have a friend who wants to do headshots, that’s fine, but not necessary.)
Thanks! We had a friend do a photo – professional “enough” I think!
I used portrait mode on the new iPhone. Worked great.